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June 17, 2014

Ending Veteran Homelessness in Virginia

VHDA Community Outreach Officer Erika Jones-Haskins reflects on Governor McAuliffe’s signing of the national agreement aimed at ending veteran homelessness by the end of 2015.

It is exciting that Governor McAuliffe has joined the nationwide challenge to end veteran homelessness by 2015. Virginia has made considerable strides towards ending homelessness, and the recent announcement of the 14 percent reduction in veteran homelessness shows the clear and measurable progress that communities throughout the Commonwealth have made in such a short time. The goal to end veteran homelessness is not a new one. What is exciting is that we finally have community will, knowledge of best practices, resources, and leadership at all levels laser focused on best serving those who dedicated themselves in service to our country.

In 2014, The Homeless Outcomes Coordinating Council has included veterans as a target population and this commitment by Governor McAuliffe provides even more opportunity to redouble our efforts and further advance the goal of ending veteran homelessness by 2015. We look forward to furthering ideas “that work” and are excited about the clear message of commitment to homeless and at-risk veterans. Furthermore, we look forward to partnering with communities around the Commonwealth as they develop housing resources to serve our veterans and their families.